Charlie Christian | |
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![]() Christian performing at the Waldorf Astoria New York, October 1939 | |
Background information | |
Birth name | Charles Henry Christian |
Born | Bonham, Texas, U.S. | July 29, 1916
Died | March 2, 1942 New York City, U.S. | (aged 25)
Genres | |
Occupation(s) | Musician |
Instrument | Guitar |
Years active | 1930s–1941 |
Charles Henry Christian (July 29, 1916 – March 2, 1942) was an American swing and jazz guitarist. He was among the first electric guitarists and was a key figure in the development of bebop and cool jazz. He gained national exposure as a member of the Benny Goodman Sextet and Orchestra from August 1939 to June 1941. His single-string technique, combined with amplification, helped bring the guitar out of the rhythm section and into the forefront as a solo instrument. For this, he is often credited with leading to the development of the lead guitar role in musical ensembles and bands.
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